Unsafe parking creating safety concerns in winter recreation areas

Dec. 30, 2020

ODOT Contacts

Lou Torres, Willamette Valley, 503-559-7118

Peter Murphy, Central Oregon, 541-325-2258

Don Hamilton, Portland area, 503-704-7452

GOVERNMENT CAMP -- Some snow-seekers heading to winter recreation areas via state highways are finding designated parking areas filled and are creating safety issues by parking on roadsides.

This parking creates significant safety hazards when people exit their vehicles and walk across the highway to reach their destination. It’s also dangerous for vehicles traveling through the area and for emergency vehicles and snow plows.

Travelers in winter recreation areas should remember to:

• Slow down and use all your best winter driving skills, especially with more snow expected over the next week in the upper elevations.
• Watch out for people next to the road. Unexpected snowball fights, sledding and other winter activities are taking place dangerously close to the highways.
• Be extra alert for snow removal equipment. Vehicles parked at the side of the road prevent plows and other equipment from doing their job.
• Find a safe place to park.
• Expect extra congestion from holiday travelers.

We’re seeing the problem on major state highways, including U.S. 26 and OR 35 around Mount Hood and OR 372 (Century Drive, south toward Mount Bachelor). This problem is especially concerning on busy freight corridors.

Under state law, non-emergency parking on state highways, including shoulders, is illegal in areas marked with no parking signs. Violators risk a ticket and a tow.

Parking is allowed in designated areas, such as Sno-Parks. Oregon has about 100 Sno-Park sites dedicated to winter recreation parking. The sites can be found throughout the state in all mountain passes and at most recognized ski, snowmobile and snow play areas.

A list of Oregon’s Sno-Parks is available at TripCheck.com under Travel Center.